THE public is being urged to help raise funds to provide a dales town with an extended and improved community centre.

The Witham Hall appeal has so far raised £5,000 since the fundraising drive was launched, but another £13,000 is still needed before architects can even be drawn in to make plans to improve the existing building.

The hall is the main community centre in Barnard Castle, and groups use it for activities, meetings and theatre performances.

However, it is need of urgent repairs, so the appeal was launched to raise thousands of pounds to carry out improvements.

Elizabeth Conran, of the Witham Hall appeal committee, said it was vital that the local community dug deep to make the dream a reality.

"There are several phases of fundraising still to get through, before we can look to raise money nationally, and the overall cost will be substantial. But at this stage, just six months into the appeal, we need help from local residents, and their contribution is vital, because essentially this appeal is to create a centre for the whole community."

As part of the appeal, members of the fundraising committee launched the Witham 500, in which they appealed for 500 people to donate £30 each. But they still need 400 people to help to reach their initial target.

"We need all the donations we can get, so please help."

To find about more about the appeal, or to make a donation, contact the Witham Hall, on (01833) 631107.